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Farm equipment theft rings in New Jersey busted up by authorities

Two rings that allegedly stole farm equipment were stopped by officials.

Two theft rings involving farm equipment have been toppled by officials in New Jersey.

The Associated Press reported that the two rings stole a total of more than $1 million worth of items, which included farm equipment. The bulk of the thefts occurred in the southern part of the state.

Though one of the rings had only been active for around six months, the other allegedly conducted thefts for approximately 14 years.

Citing the New Jersey State Police, the AP stated that nine people have been arrested in connection to the thefts. Authorities in Delaware and Pennsylvania were also involved in the investigation, which is still being conducted.

Bill Henry, who is a detective with the New Jersey State Police, told the AP that many of the pieces of equipment have been recovered, though authorities are still finding some of the snatched property.

Because farm equipment can be rather valuable, people who own it would be wise to make sure it is safe from thieves. According to the National Equipment Register, farmers can protect their equipment by immobilizing it when it is not in use.